April 06, (THEWILL) – Enyimba overcame local rivals Abia Warriors 2-1 in a compelling Nigeria Premier Football League fixture at Enyimba International Stadium, Aba on Sunday.

The victory sees Enyimba climb the league table, moving them to 46 points in eighth place, while Abia Warriors remain third with 50 points after 32 matches in the 2024/2025 campaign.

Abia Warriors established an early advantage when Ijoma Desouza found the net in the 21st minute, putting the visitors ahead.

Enyimba equalised through midfielder Kalu Nweke in the 36th minute, bringing the scores level at 1-1 before the interval. Both sides exhibited competitive intent throughout an evenly contested first half.

The decisive moment arrived in the 66th minute when Joseph Atule scored to give Enyimba a 2-1 lead.

Strategic substitutions proved influential for the home side, with Akanni Elijah and Mujeeb Odufeso introduced at the hour mark, followed by Solomon Ogbarehwe and Chidiebere Nnachi entering the field with five minutes of normal time remaining.

These tactical changes enabled Enyimba to maintain their advantage until the final whistle.

Enyimba fielded a starting XI comprising goalkeeper Ani, defenders Innocent, Atule, and Quadri, midfielders Nweke and captain Paschal, alongside Ufere, Chikamuso, Obot, Awaziei, and Christian.

The opposition, under the management of Imama Amapakabo, presented a stern challenge but was unable to prevent Enyimba from recording their 12th victory in 19 encounters between the teams since 2014.